Recently, I've been on a fashion/memoir kick, so when I saw Amanda Brooks' memoir, Always Pack a Party Dress available on NetGalley, I immediately requested it. Thank you to Blue Rider Press for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

PLOT - New Yorker Amanda Brooks enjoyed very early success in the fashion industry, including landing her dream job as a fashion director for Barney's New York while still in her twenties. In Always Pack a Party Dress, Brooks writes about her twenty years in the industry and dispenses both career and fashion advice. In her late thirties, she transitioned to a more quiet life, by moving to a farm in England with her British husband and young children. She speaks about her new lifestyle and the importance of fashion, even while living on a farm.

LIKE - Brooks' memoir is going to be a problem for me. It has reawakened my love of reading Vogue and shopping! The love and respect that Brooks has for the art of fashion is contagious. She has a sense of humor about her fashion mistakes and a true love for the outfits that she has nailed. Brooks makes a highly likable protagonist, because she chases after her dreams, works hard and wins. I respect her and it makes me value her opinions. This woman has a lot of moxy! Brooks has led such a fascinating life and it made her memoir highly entertaining. Above all, even with the high power jobs, celebrity friends and amazing wardrobe, Brooks comes across as a relatable, every-woman. It's impossible to dislike her.

DISLIKE- Nothing, except for my bank account dropping due to my new wardrobe inspired by Brooks! Kidding...kind of. Really, there was nothing to dislike about this memoir. It's well crafted and a fun read.

RECOMMEND - Yes, absolutely. Always Pack a Party Dress is a must for those with an interest in fashion, but it would be a nice boost of inspiration for anyone who is chasing their dreams.